Disabled people

A disabled person is more likely to experience domestic abuse and may be less able to protect themselves - making them more vulnerable to the possibility of being abused. The risk of abuse can be increased as they are often reliant on the perpetrator for their care.

The perpetrator may be abusive or neglectful in their care of the victim or even withhold care altogether. Abuse can be withholding sensory or mobility aids from the victim to isolate them. It can also be withholding medication or a person’s means of any independence.

The perpetrator may take control of the finances of the victim and cause them to get into debt, or refrain from giving them the funds they are owed. The perpetrator may insist on being present at any medical or social care appointments, making it difficult for the victim to disclose any disability abuse. Disabled people will find it more difficult to remove themselves from an abusive situation or to leave their home if it has been adapted for their disability.